Shepherd
Shepherd is a boy name of English origin meaning “One who herds sheep”, pronounced SHEP-erd. It ranked #246 in the United States in 2025, given to 1,408 babies, and peaked at #246 in 2025. Common nicknames: Shep.
How popular is Shepherd in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Shepherd mean, and where does it come from?
Shepherd is an English occupational surname referring to one who tends and herds sheep, from the Old English "sceaphierde," combining "sceap" (sheep) and "hierde" (herder). The image of the shepherd carries deep symbolic weight in Christian tradition, evoking guidance, protection, and care, as reflected in the biblical Twenty-Third Psalm. As a given name, Shepherd has emerged in the 21st century as part of a wider trend of occupational and pastoral surnames becoming first names, joining the ranks of Hunter, Mason, and Cooper.
How is Shepherd used around the world?
Shepherd is used in 0 languages worldwide, with 1+ international variants.
TypeMale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Shepherd?
Famous People Named Shepherd
- Shepherd Mead — American author of How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying
- Shepherd Leffler — American politician and early US Representative from Iowa
Similar Names to Shepherd
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Sibling Name Ideas for Shepherd
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Shepherd mean?
Shepherd is a boy name of English origin meaning "One who herds sheep." Shepherd is an English occupational surname referring to one who tends and herds sheep, from the Old English "sceaphierde," combining "sceap" (sheep) and "hierde" (herder). The image of the shepherd carries deep symbolic weight in Christian tradition, evoking guidance, protection, and care, as reflected in the biblical Twenty-Third Psalm.
How do you pronounce Shepherd?
Shepherd is pronounced SHEP-erd. Common variations include Shepard, Sheppard, Shep.
Is Shepherd a boy name?
Yes, Shepherd is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Shep.